Dr. Paul Asiedu Advises Men on Prostate Health, Early Screening

Dr. Paul Asiedu, Urology Specialist at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), has urged men to pay close attention to their prostate health, emphasizing early detection and lifestyle management as key to preventing complications.

Speaking in an interview with Opemsuo Radio’s Kofi Boakye, Dr. Asiedu explained that the prostate, a male-specific gland located beneath the urinary bladder, is prone to several conditions including benign enlargement, infections, and cancer.

He noted that age and genetics are major risk factors, highlighting a link between families affected by breast cancer and increased prostate cancer risk among men.

“Prostate cancer often develops silently, with about 75 percent of cases starting in the peripheral zone, which can delay detection,”Dr. Asiedu said.

He advised men from the age of 40 to begin annual screenings using the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test.

Normal PSA levels range from 0 to 4 nanograms per milliliter, while higher levels indicate a growing risk of cancer.

Dr. Asiedu also stressed the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive red meat.

He warned that untreated prostate infections could become chronic, impacting quality of life, while early intervention often leads to full recovery.

Highlighting age-related prevalence, Dr. Asiedu noted that autopsy studies show prostate enlargement affects only 8% of men under 40, about 50 percent of those aged 57–60, and as many as 88 percent of men above 80.

“Regular medical check-ups and timely treatment are crucial,” he emphasized, urging men to prioritize prostate health as part of overall well-being.